Trials begin for nearly 200 arrested for protesting government in Turkey

Trials have begun in Istanbul for 189 individuals, including students, journalists, and lawyers, accused of participating in protests against the Turkish government following the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on March 19, UPI.com reported.

The Istanbul prosecutor’s office plans to try a total of 819 people linked to protests held between March 19 and 26, during which nearly 2,000 were detained. The opposition Republican People’s Party said 2.2 million people demonstrated in support of İmamoğlu, who faces corruption charges he and his party say are politically motivated.

İmamoğlu is also an opposition candidate planning to run for president in 2028 against Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Protesters face charges including participating in illegal demonstrations, failing to disperse, carrying weapons, and incitement. Human Rights Watch criticized the trials, calling them rushed and aimed at suppressing peaceful protest and free expression. Public gatherings remain banned in Turkey, with penalties ranging from six months to five years in prison. Supporters attended the mass hearings, showing solidarity with the accused.